Alessandro Del Piero has expressed his delight at sealing a move to Australian side Sydney FC from Juventus.

The former Italy international had been linked with a switch to Liverpool in recent days after the Reds’ failure to bring in attacking reinforcements following Andy Carroll’s loan move to West Ham United.

But the 37-year-old penned a two-year deal with Sydney on Wednesday and insists he is looking forward to making a “major contribution” at the club.

“I am extremely happy to be joining Sydney FC,” Del Piero said. “This is a very big moment for me because I want to continue my career in a new part of the world where I can make a major contribution and help grow the game I love.

“The most important thing for me has always been the football and I want to help Sydney FC be successful.

“This is an exciting journey for me and I look forward to joining my new team mates in Sydney shortly.”

He said: “This signing is a major coup for Sydney FC and marks a historic day for football in this country. This is for all Australian football fans.

“Alessandro Del Piero is a global icon of the game and we are honoured he has chosen Sydney FC, ahead of many other options, as the club where he will begin the next chapter of his illustrious football career.”

Del Piero scored 286 goals in 698 appearances for Juventus after joining the Turin outfit from Padova in 1993.